Crapo Enters New Term With Focus on Jobs, Deficit

Washington, D.C. - Putting a focus on job creation and deficit reduction should top the list of priorities for new members of the 112th Congress, according to Idaho Senator Mike Crapo. Crapo was sworn in today on Capitol Hill to serve his third term in the Senate. Crapo, who was escorted to the well of the Senate to take the oath by Idaho Senator Jim Risch, expects to increase his Senate seniority through influential positions on the Senate Finance, Banking, Budget and Environment and Public Works Committees, although final committee assignments have not yet been determined.

"It is unacceptable that so many Idahoans and Americans are willing to work but unable to find employment," Crapo said. "This new Congress must focus on getting our nation's fiscal house in order and reducing the massive national debt, which the U.S. Treasury reported this week has exceeded $14 trillion.

"We must remove the uncertainty potential employers face when they don't know if taxes and regulations are going to increase this year. Focusing on job creation and economic growth requires a review of federal taxes and regulations affecting small businesses and workers. Americans deserve a fair tax code and curtailment of unreasonable government mandates. Decisive actions to reduce debt, regulations and taxes can increase our nation's competitive situation in the world market and encourage investment and new job creation.

"Collaboration, without abandonment of principles, will be instrumental for success in the 112th Congress, and I look forward to working with Idahoans, our Congressional Delegation, Governor Otter and the Idaho Legislature to accomplish fiscally-responsible and effective objectives that foster growth, jobs and increased economic activity at both the state and federal level this coming year."